Saudi Arabia and Türkiye sign agreement for UAV manufacturing localization

The deal, announced on Sunday, builds upon a historic agreement signed between the parties last month. This collaboration aims to bolster the role of Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), a state-owned entity, in supporting the national defense industry and enhancing local capabilities. The agreement also includes provisions for technology transfer.

The signing ceremony, hosted by Saudi Arabia's Defense Ministry in Riyadh, also saw other leading Turkish defense contractors, Aselsan and Roketsan, sign new agreements. Aselsan and Roketsan signed a memorandum of understanding with NCMS, an organization that conducts studies to localize technology in Saudi Arabia.

Baykar General Manager Haluk Bayraktar expressed that the agreement marks a significant milestone, strengthening cooperation between Turkey and Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that developing new technologies not only provides advantages but also fosters stronger ties with allies, promoting regional and global stability.

The recent agreements follow Baykar's drone sale to Saudi Arabia last month, representing the largest defense contract in Turkey's history. The deal involves cooperation in technology transfer and joint production, including the export of Baykar's Akıncı unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), the more advanced sibling of its widely-used Bayraktar TB2.

Bayraktar highlighted that the project is not only a business opportunity for Baykar but also holds promising prospects in line with the country's interests. He emphasized that the Bayraktar Akıncı is an advanced and sophisticated drone, equipped with artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology.

Baykar's drones have gained global recognition, with the TB2 being widely used and sold to various countries. Akıncı, being more advanced than TB2, has garnered interest from several nations, with six countries already purchasing it. Baykar has signed deals to sell TB2 to around 30 countries, including NATO and EU member states.

The agreement with Saudi Arabia comes as part of Turkey's diplomatic efforts to normalize strained ties with Saudi Arabia and the UAE since 2021. Türkiye's defense industry breakthrough and localization drive have resulted in the development of various homegrown air, land, and marine platforms, leading to billions of dollars worth of deals in recent years.

The recent developments are expected to pave the way for new exports and business cooperation, benefiting numerous Turkish companies involved in the defense and aerospace industry. Aselsan and Roketsan, collaborating with Baykar in various fields, will utilize their expertise to contribute to the development of Saudi Arabia's defense industry. (ILKHA)